Trendsetter by The Avenue Magazine

THE AVENUE VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2

trendsetter HOW DO THEY GET CROWNED WITH SUCH A LABEL? UNDERGROUND ROYALTY P. 28

THE AVENUE Trendsetter | Winter 2016 Vol. 4 Issue 2

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Shelby Robin

DEPUTY EDITOR

Non Kuramoto

BEAUTY EDITOR

Diya Khullar

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Rachel Basso

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Elise Borja

CREATIVE ASSOCIATE

Sam Isaacs

GRAPHIC DESIGN DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS WOMENSWEAR STYLING DIRECTOR MENSWEAR STYLING DIRECTOR WOMENSWEAR STYLISTS MENSWEAR STYLISTS SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS PHOTOGRAPHERS VIDEOGRAPHERS MAKEUP & NAIL ARTISTS

Fernanda Fiszner Claudia Bracy, Sarah Ceniceros, Halley Husted, Xochitl Lozano and Karina Masri Valerie Butler Will Harvey Zoe Unverferth and Annie Wu Michelle Rodriguez and Adrian Kombe Ava Powchik and Annie Wu Andrea Barriga, Claire Cramm, Lindis Barry, Adrian Kombe, Catherine Lindsay and Daniel Zak Daniel Meyers and Crystal Han Dana Dworkin, Diya Khullar and Halle Butler

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Halle Butler

PR DIRECTOR

Lindis Barry

MARKETING ASSOCIATES PR ASSOCIATES

Yutika Ghiya, Asmara Kapur, Carly Rudiger and Ewa Sepiolo Nicole Miller and Marcella Kukulka

WRITERS

Maria Isabel Bermudez, Elise Borja, Halle Butler, Jessica Fortier, Yutika Ghiya, Will Harvey, Marcella Kukulka, Catherine Lindsay, Ina Muller, and Zoe Unverferth

MODELS

Sophia Al-Khamis, Shelz Chipimo, Jessica Fortier, Katherine Gong, Oussama Haddadi, Sarah Karp, Diya Khullar, Taylor Maxfield, Ina Muller, Alyssa Otolo and Liza Pereguda

LETTER from the

EDITOR With every changing season, the fashion industry somehow outputs a fresh set of trends that are seamlessly incorporated into many wardrobes. What will be the next big trends and how can we make them our own? Welcome to Fashion & Retail Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eleventh issue of The Avenue. I am very honored to introduce The Avenueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second issue of the semester that will be distributed on campus, with a digital version also available on our website. Trendsetter. It Girl. Style Leader. How do they get crowned with such labels? The key is embracing personal style and letting their unique taste take control. Trendsetters wear what they want to wear. Having a specific personal style does not mean you should limit yourself; true trendsetters do not fear straying from their staples. Trendsetters are defined by their willingness to take risks, and ability to turn the newest styles into original fashion statements. They possess a balance between being one step ahead and being hyper-aware of current trends. Today, the trendsetterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s identity extends beyond what they wear. Articles about finding your personal style and incorporating trends help you with the first half of the battle to becoming a trendsetter, but learning to live the lifestyle is its own thing. Being social media savvy is very important today, so read on to learn how to groom your instagram aesthetic and turn your blog into a business. Trendsetters always have their hands in every pot, so we bring you ways to both enjoy nightlife in Boston and use fashion as a tool for social change. Everyone and anyone can find inspiration in some aspect of the It-Girl identity we cover in this issue of The Avenue. The end of 2016 marks my sign off as Editor-in-Chief, as I will be leaving for co-op in NYC next semester. I am proud of the progress we have made this semester, and am so excited to see the magazine continue to grow. I give the reins on to the lovely and talented Non Kuramoto, who will continue to guide our amazing team to become stronger and more successful. Thank you to everyone who collaborated on this issue, your passion-driven hard work has paid off. With Love,

Shelby Robin Editor-in-Chief

TABLE OF CONTENTS pg 6 | Rebels of Style pg 10 | Colors of Fashion pg 12 | How to Brand Your Fashion Blog 16

pg 40 | Boston After Dark: Unique Nightlife Destinations pg 44 | Gramworthy: honing your insta #aesthetic pg 46 | Layer Up & Sleek Chic pg 54 | Male Makeup Artists to Follow

pg 56 | King & Company Designs pg 60 | Campus Chic Feature

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REBELS OF STYLE The Women Who Used Their Wardrobes for Social Change Written by Maria Bermudez Pizano

If there is one thing that sociologists who study the impact fashion has on society can agree on, it is that fashion is embedded in society. In a way, this connection fashion has with society refers to the constant evolution of style; one that has produced iconic trends decade after decade. Unsurprisingly, fashion can help ignite societal change and contributes to revolutionary movements that impact our daily lives. Fashion is powerful enough to inspire unity,

Photos by Lindis Barry

rebellion and like any artform; fashion is a tool for selfexpression. Spearheaded by individuals who challenge the portrayal of identity, beauty and power, many the political revolutions have been accompanied by stylistic revolitions. These nonconformists have fought social norms by using their creativity to make an impact that went way beyond retail shops by using the ultimate extension of themselves: their clothes.

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A HISTORY OF SOCIAL CHANGE & FASHION Known for their militant actions including committing arson and window-smashing, the Women’s Social and Political Union was a group known for the creative and fierce methods they used to get the public’s attention. Constantly in prison and on hunger strikes, these women were known for going all-out, and their choice of clothing was no exception. Suffragettes used their clothes to send a message to the rest of the world. They wore skirts covered in pamphlets with slogans advertising their events and colored sashes over their dresses to identify themselves. At every step of the way, they made a statement with what they wore. Regardless of their social class, the suffragettes’ attire served as an extension of their cause. Working-class women accessorized their simple dresses with brooches and bright ribbons in their signature colors to spice up their image. For many suffragists, practicality trumped the pompous Victorian style that was expected of women at the time. Long straight coats were worn over fitted, high collared blouses with A-line skirts that went to their mid-calf. Seriousness was expected, but pins and brooches added an adventurous touch to their wardrobes. For many middle-class suffragists, pairing conservative dresses with their liberal actions was a protest in itself. Flaunting feminine garb that women were expected to wear while doing unexpected things resulted in astonishment and wonder. It was a way to challenge those who saw them as violent and masculine, and their “arson in victorian style” created a ripple effect in society. In terms of symbols, suffragettes used their signature colors to send a message. Their color scheme was green for hope, white for purity and violet for loyalty and dignity. What is even more powerful is that apart from the symbolism, these colors had a clear political message; green, white and violet were chosen because their initials spelled the goal of the movement: Give Women Votes.

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From then on, the world has witnessed various generations rebel in style. The 1920s had flappers, The 1960s had hippies and The 1970s in England brought the punk rockers. Fast forward to today, and you will find that most of these styles have made a come back in one way or another, so it is natural to wonder: what is next?

SO WHAT NOW? HOW WE CAN CREATE SOCIAL CHANGE TODAY Today, there are many ways our fashion choices tell the world who we are. Choosing brands that you are proud to represent begins the path towards being a conscious fashion consumer. Brands such as Eileen Fisher support environmental and human rights initiatives as part of their commitment to being a responsible and sustainable business. Through their many initiatives, which includes working for better legislation, Eileen Fisher shows its commitment to creating a positive impact. Having consideration for how things are produced, used and also disposed of is the first step in making a difference. This is what the Make/Use project from Massey University is looking to do. The New Zealand-based initiative aims to inspire people to practice zero-waste techniques in production and design. It has now evolved into a community that uses the best production practices and knowledge

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in order to “empower wearers of clothing” and challenge them to modify how they think about fashion. The most abstract way to use fashion as a tool for social change is to use it to send a message. This is sometimes easier said than done, but that does not mean it has not been done. Enter movements such as Modest Fashion, which proves that nonostentatious dressing guidelines do not have to be at odds with style. Changemakers Adi Heyman, founder of Fabiologie and Mimi Hecht and Mushky Notik, founders of Mimu Maxi. Hecht and Notik lead a spiritual life abiding by the rules of modern Orthodox Judaism. To them, following their faith does not mean selfexpression has to be compromised. As young girls, Mimi and Mushky found that dressing modestly was a challenge. Modest skirts, long sleeves and high necklines did not fulfill their need for trendy styles. So, these women found a way to position themselves at the intersection of modesty and vogue by filling a void they found in the industry, leading them to become icons for women looking for more options in modest fashion. Creating a “bridge between religions and borders, bringing

together women in unexpected ways” is an impressive thing to do, especially in such a competitive industry. Regardless of some critique that these designers and bloggers face, one must admit that these women have accomplished something revolutionary. The new segment of the fashion community that resulted from this movement has led to research symposiums and collaborations. Perhaps this is one of the most beautiful ways in which fashion can be used to become a tool for social change.

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COLORS of fashion

Written by Marcella Kukulka

We all dream of the perfect wardrobe. To make those dreams become reality there are a few fundamental rules! You should always buy items that 1. make you feel confident, 2. fit nicely and 3. include “essential shades” needed for making great outfits. While your wardrobe should express your personality and should not include anything you dislike, certain color combinations can create a wonderful palette that is both stylish and works well for any occasion. Here is a list of seven essential colors you should be wearing right now!

SKY BLUE

MAUVE

Sky blue is a great color for t-shirts and cardigans. Like blue jeans, sky blue works with almost any color. It is best to keep it casual with sky blue—it is not a statement color, but great for any occasion.

The most in-style color of 2016 is mauve, a soft and sweet color that looks great on every skin tone. Since it is a duller color, pair it with shiny jewelry to liven it up. Mauve looks better with white, black and nudes rather than rich colors. Popular mauve items this year have been sneakers and dresses.

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SCARLET

EGGPLANT

A sultry color that is great for lingerie, high heels and formal dresses; scarlet is a must-have in every womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closet. Scarlet looks spectacular both by itself and when combined with neutral colors such as nude, black or navy blue. Just keep the jewelry simple since red is a powerful color on its ownâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; cluttering the look with loud necklaces or a printed scarf is a big no-no!

Eggplant is a vibrant shade that looks wonderful on both light and dark skin tones. This rich purple works well with any color, from complementary yellows and greens, to analogous pinks and reds. Neutral colors such as white and brown can make the color pop. Eggplant is great to rock at parties because it is vivid and will make you stand out from the crowd, but subdued enough so you do not overshadow the host.

Next, we have olive green, a trendy color that will give you an urban edge. Olive green should be used sparingly. An easy outfit would be pairing an olive green bomber jacket with a white t-shirt and blue jeans, but a whole olive green maxidress will probably wash you out.

essential shades for your wardrobe

BURGUNDY

STONE GRAY

Burgundy is a great color for any day of the year, but especially during the fall. The beautiful fall foliage will compliment your burgundy pair of tailored pants or oversized sweater. Because of its warmth and homeyness, burgundy is also a great color to wear to Thanksgiving dinner. Pro tip: avoid pairing burgundy with bold colors; it is a rich color that looks best with neutrals.

Two words to describe you in stone grey: professional and chic. A softer alternative to black, grey is best paired with other soft colors such as pastel pinks and blues. Stone Grey is the best shade for work, as black can be boring and white can be a too bold. A stone grey scarf also is a must-have item since it goes well with most neutral-colored outerwear.

Photos courtesy of: Tahari Arthur S. Levine, Stone Island, Badgley Mischka, Nike, johnlewis.com, topshop.com, hollister.com, jcrew.com

OLIVE GREEN

HOW TO BRAND YOUR

FASHION BLOG 5 EASY STEPS Written by Ina MĂźller Photos by Claire Cramm A successful fashion blog can not go without a strong brand anymore. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to do it. Fashion bloggers have turned the industry upside down. Instead of just hunting down brands and the latest trends, they have turned

into brands themselves. It takes hard work to build a strong brand image for your fashion blog. So the question is: How can you transform your hobby blog into a professional blog with a strong brand reputation? Here are five easy steps:

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MAKE YOUR BLOG SEO-FRIENDLY We fashion girls can also be tech savy. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can help maximize the number of visitors to a blog, because it ensures that the site appears on the front page of search engine results. Up to 80 percent of all traffic to a website comes through search engines. Using SEO will help potential readers to find your blog in the depths of the internet.

you don’t include keywords, you can have terrific content, but what’s the use if you are not discovered? By the way, did I mention this: SEO is entirely free! I know, a fashion blogger’s dream come true.

The one thing you really want to optimize is the keywords. Keywords are search terms that Internet users use when searching for information in the web. Think about what your readers would possibly type into Google to find a new fashion blog or when seeking some fashion advice. Then incorporate them in a clever way into your content. If

CREATE UNIQUE CONTENT The content of your blog will be what draws your readers. If you are clueless on how to create quality content, do not despair, here are some concerns to focus on. Create content that your readers want to read. It should be something they would search for and enjoy. For example, you could provide solutions and become the to-go source for your readers. You could provide advice on what to wear for your best friend’s wedding. Or you could come up with 10 unique ways to style a scarf in fall.

for your blog is also an effortless way to add content and widen your audience. Now that you have your content set up, your next goal is to follow the best practices in the world of fashion blogging. Continually create new content, set your blogging goals and aim to be an expert and engage with your audience.

Be creative with the types of content! Videos, interviews, photos, tutorials and news about the fashion industry are what readers really want to see. Having a guest blogger write

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MANAGE RELATIONSHIPS Relationship Marketing is all about customer loyalty and long-term customer engagement. Or to put it simply, it is about developing strong, lifelong relationships with your readers. The most important part is to facilitate two-way conversations with your readers. Engaging with your readers by commenting on their blogs and answering your readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; comments on your blog is critical. Blogger-reader relatiobship, just like any other relationship, takes commitment to succeed. Devote a portion of your day towards relationship building, even if it is only 10 or 20 minutes each day. Also, make the relationship with your readers a personal one. If they are curious, giving them a sneak peak into your life will definitely help to win them over and retain them as readers.

USE SOCIAL MEDIA & PUBLIC RELATIONS Your brand should continue to flourish off your main platform. Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Snapchat are other networks where you want to have presence. While these channels do not necessarily bring direct traffic to your blog, they will definitely help you to build your brand and help people recognize you. It is super important to keep your brand image consistent for each profile. Also, do not hide your

social media presence; embrace it by adding links to your social media channels on your blog. You should also try to get involved with companies. I am not suggesting you to go out and team up with big brands before you are ready. But utilize your reputation you already have as a blogger to work with smaller brands and upcoming designers.

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POSITION YOURSELF Positioning is not just for big brands, fashion bloggers need it too. Good positioning makes your brand stand out from the rest. It creates an idea of who you are, what your product is all about and whom it is for. You would want to answer the following question: What is your blog about and who is it for? These questions might seem easy at first, but believe me; once you actually need to answer them, they are any-

thing but simple! Give it a second thought, try to create your own market and fill that niche. Just stating your blog is about fashion and fashion lovers will not get you the attention you deserve; make it more specific! Your blogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name and design also are a big part of how your fashion blog is perceived. Make sure you choose these with care so they are as appealing to your audience as possible.

One last piece of advice: Enjoy! Go out there and take over the fashion world.

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NOT YOUR MODEL MINORITY ANGRY ASIAN GIRLS defines themselves as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;collective dedicated to empowering femme and nonbinary folx in the AAPI community through arts and activism.â&#x20AC;? Known for their tongue-in-cheek designs and kickass mission, this group of women is ready to lead a movement through art, apparel and grassroots activism. The Avenue got the chance to interview with co-founders Kate Bartel and Dahn Bi Lee-Hong to learn more about their current project and plans for their relaunch in 2017.

ANGRY ASIAN GIRLS bridging fashion & activism Written by Elise Borja Photos by Ava Powchick

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Question: How was ANGRY ASIAN GIRLS founded? Kate Bartel: We started as a t-shirt campaign to raise money for the Asian American Women’s Political Initiative, an internship program at the Massachusetts State House that brought all of us together back in January. We’d spent the semester discussing the issues Asian American women face on a day-to-day in politics, health, the art world, etc. etc., and we wanted to create a design that would embody our frustrations around these issues. I don’t think any of us thought our presence would take off the way it did online, but a couple of us decided to roll with it this past summer and turn our Teespring campaign into a larger mission of empowering and starting conversations in the AAPI communities in Boston and New York. Q: What is the mission of AAG? Are you a fashion line, art collective, nonprofit or a combination? K: We’re a collective of women, femmes and non-binary individuals looking to increase visibility around some of the sociopolitical issues that face our communities. We started out screen printing tees that donned taglines like ANGRY ASIAN GIRLS and NOT YOUR MODEL MINORITY and have used the profits from those campaigns to put on events in Greater Boston. Because of the capitalistic nature of buying and printing apparel, we want to stray from being called a fashion brand and instead focus our efforts on fostering conversations that highlight AAPI voices and narratives through the arts. We want to make art more accessible and less taboo in the AAPI community. We would love to ultimately become a certified nonprofit, but we aren’t quite there yet. Definitely #goals, though.

can hopefully lead to changing the stigma around AAPI’s being a “model minority.” Q: What does it mean to be an Angry Asian Girl? DB: Being an Angry Asian Girl means collaborating with like-minded individuals to make social and political change. We want to tear down fetishization of AAPI women and femmes. We are shifting the narrative of what it looks like to be Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Desi, while also trying to be all-inclusive and representative in our internal structure. K: A big part of our name is also in reclaiming the word “girls” and pushing back against the Hollywood trope of what it means to be an Asian woman. The model minority myth has limited the way modern media views and represents Asian femmes, and so we strive to expand the definition of femininity by showing just how diverse Asian “girls” can be. We come in all different forms, and genders. We’re trying to reclaim and normalize that conception.

“Angry Asian Girls is unique in that it brings together arts and activism”

Q: The shirts that AAG has produced are very enticing, and somewhat controversial. What inspired you to create these? DB: For me, fashion is how I express myself and my politics. I’m not afraid to walk into a boardroom dressed like I am now [in an AAG graphic t-shirt with a pleated miniskirt]; it makes people question how they view professionalism. Everyone’s voice deserves to be heard, regardless of their appearance, and I think that’s one of the messages we want to get across through our shirts. K: Getting dressed in the morning is a political act. We want to make waves with our shirts. More than anything, we want them to be conversation starters that

Q: You stated that AAG is taking a hiatus until January. What will the group work on during this time?

K: We're currently taking a hiatus to rethink some of our fundamental goals and capacities as both individuals and as an organization. We want to do this right, and rebuild ourselves from the ground up to best serve the communities and demographics we want to represent. As DB said, we strive to be all-encompassing of Asian American, Pacific Islanders, and Desi femmes and nonbinary individuals. The only way we can most accurately represent these voices is by including them in the work we do. We'll be back on January 13th, 2017 with plenty of new ideas, prints, designs, upcoming events, and most importantly, a thoroughly fleshed out mission that reflects us best as an organization. Q: What is the future for AAG? DB: We’re trying to achieve nonprofit 501(c)3 status. This would allow us to put on more events like the #NotYourModelMinority panel and poetry slam, and bring conversations on important issues to the communities that matter most to us. We will be revamping our internal structure to give our artists and designers a reliable way to bring those new projects to fruition. We'll be figuring out more ways to print and ship our merchandise in January with the launch of our new website. We’ve got a lot of work to do, but we’re excited to get planning this winter.

Day & Night: Busy in Boston

Are you doing Boston right? Here are some ideas for what to do and what to wear to be ballinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Boston.

Written by Jessica Fortier Photos by Andrea Barriga

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DAY What to Do Boston is full of unique neighborhoods. The North End has delicious cannolis and homemade gnocchi that have patrons heading home with happy full stomachs. In South Boston—a.k.a. Southie—genuine Bostonians are abound, putting Leonardo DiCaprio’s attempt at a Boston accent to shame. Fenway is spilling over with college students, rowdy (but bona-fide) Red Sox fans, music venues (House of Blues) and museums (MFA and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum). Start off by taking a walk, being a tourist in your own city. Home of the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere, Boston radiates history. Acorn Street in Beacon Hill is one of the last true cobblestoned streets in Boston, and is one of the most photographed streets in the United States. Take a friend and a camera to traverse this cool area behind the

State House. While you’re there, be sure to stroll through the picturesque Boston Gardens! Pro tip: Don’t wear heels— stilettos and cobblestones are not your friend; opt for some comfy boots with a solid rubber sole. Another captivating place to walk around is Downtown Crossing, right around the corner from the State House. If you let yourself wander, you will stumble upon hidden gems such as Brattle Bookshop. This outdoor/indoor shop was founded in 1825 and is one of the largest antiquarian bookshops in the country. Here you will find neat prints, maps and books. On a cold Boston day, warm up in my favorite coffee shop near Northeastern—Caffé Bene. Just trust me and get their waffle with gelato.

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What to Wear Boston is cold. Invest in dual-purpose pieces that combine warmth and style. Top outfits off with cozy scarves and vests. A colorful or printed scarf and a couple of fun jewelry pieces can liven up an otherwise plain outfit. Fuzzy vests will keep your core toasty. If you throw on some nice boots, you can transform a sweater and leggings into a polished look. If you find yourself wearing a lot of black, score some colorful boots to set your feet apart in a sea of black shoes; I’m currently dreaming of oxblood suede over-the-knee boots. Over-the-knee boots with a flat to low heel are the way to go for the fashion forward—they’re practical, but still make a statement. If you live in the city, you will be walking a lot, comfortable walking shoes are always the better option.

NIGHT What to Do Nighttime: time to turn up. You do not want to be all dressed up with nowhere to go, so here are a few good spots to go on your night out: Tavern in the Square, Ned Devine’s, Lansdowne, and Howl at the Moon. Whether it is live music or DJs, these bars are great for those who want to dance. But if you’re looking to dance your heart out, check out the club scene at Whiskey Saigon, Royale or Storyville. Pro tip: Research club promotions before you go—ladies can often get in for free before 11 pm. Looking for a good date spot? Wink & Nod is a speakeasy disguised as residential building; the great reveal will make you the coolest date. If your date is a music lover, venture to The Beehive for a live jazz performance. They also have interesting paintings that are sure to be conversation starters. Lolita’s also has thought provoking paintings, but the main event is their killer guacamole. If you believe in romance, get to know each other over dinner. Two of my favorite Boston restaurants are Dolce Vita in the North End and Sunset Cantina by BU (start taking notes, boys).

Another fun nighttime activity is a casual art class at The Paint Bar. You can enjoy drinks and walk out with your own canvas painting. If you’re more into nature, go star gazing and learn about astronomy at the Boston University Observatory.

What to Wear When you are going out at night, experiment with trends and step up your fashion game. You can rock ripped jeans, a choker necklace, a leather jacket or a cut-out top. A small crossbody purse is essential for going out. It should have just enough room to fit essentials: phone, tinted chapstick, mints, ID, credit card and a $20 bill. Booties with taller heels will dress up jeans and give your booty a nice extra boost. If you don’t plan on walking, go crazy; put on the lace up heels that are so cute you will brave the blisters. The only accessory that you need with those shoes is selfconfidence. After all, you are only in your twenties once.

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exciting first date ideas Written by Marcella Kukulk If your latest date did not include grabbing a cup of coffee or watching Netflix, you can count yourself as one of the lucky people who has avoided the monotonous cycle of the first date! It is not that any of the aforementioned ideas are bad, but there is something enticing about going out with someone who has obviously put some creative effort into making sure you enjoy yourself. With these 5 alternative date ideas you will be saving cash and creating fun memories in no time!

Play Escape the Room Just what it sounds like, groups are placed in a room that they have to escape by finding hidden objects, searching for clues and solving mystery puzzles. With only 60 minutes to gain freedom, Escape the Room requires intense cooperation and good communication skills. I bet you are wondering, “Why would I ever want to do this?” and boy do I have some answers for you! First dates can be especially awkward when you are nervous or do not know what topics to bring up into conversation. Participating in this type of structured activity, will force you and your date to swap ideas resulting in a bonding experience. Escape the Room is a great way to show off your intelligence and willingness to step out of your comfort zone—two characteristics highly desired in a romantic partner. Conversely, you too can learn a lot about your date’s personality. Do they communicate well under pressure or do they get frustrated easily? This could be an accurate representation of their reaction to conflict—an important factor to keep in mind when entering a relationship.

Have a Picnic in the Park With the taste of delicious food on your tongue, there is nothing better than sharing a sweet conversation and beautiful day in the park with your future boo. Yes, picnics are indeed as romantic as they look. Either cooking together or going to the market to pick out food for your basket, the concept of creating something together is charming. Everybody knows that food is a key aspect to a well functioning relationship—having a picnic will give you the opportunity to learn about your date’s meal habits. Do they tell you to decide and end up barely touching the basket or do they proudly chomp down on that turkey sub within seconds? If it’s the latter, you’re in for some adventurous foodie dates in the future!

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Walk through a Carnival Going to a carnival is like discovering the “best date ever” goldmine. With thrilling rides and the chance to share cotton candy it is the perfect venue for romance. Big roller coaster rides provide the perfect opportunity to initiate hand holding and winning a stuffed animal for your beau will deem you hero of the night. Carnivals also tend to display artisan artwork, knick knacks and comfort food. This will give you and your date a chance to talk about likes and dislikes, secret hobbies, favorite foods or anything else that strikes a chord when walking through the tents. At the very least, a carnival is a super convenient place to accidentally run into a friend if things are going amiss!

Take a Hike

Photos courtesy of: clamfestival.com, paloaltocountyiowa.com, manicaarchitecture.com, worldofescapes.com, 123rf.com

Bust out those cute workout clothes and go take a hike! Hiking is a safe activity because you can take it at your own pace. If the date is going well, you can keep walking for hours, maybe even find a secluded area to sneak a kiss. However, if it is less than exceptional, you can always speed it up and take the nearest shortcut back home. Do not forget to read up on the area you will be hiking —sharing information about the geological features, wildlife and plants will save you when there is a lull in conversation. If that does not work, you can always excuse any awkward silences by your amazement at the surrounding scenery. Completely cost free with an outstanding view, hiking is an adventurous date idea that most people will enjoy.

Go to a Live Sporting Event Okay, maybe this idea is not that original...but it is definitely less common than a fancy dinner date! Going to a live sporting event is a last-minute date miracle because it works in all seasons. You have summer for baseball, fall for basketball, winter for hockey and football in the spring. Before you freak out about high ticket prices, just know that you can buy bleacher seats at Fenway for only $10. Attending a live sporting event is exciting, especially if it includes a team you or your date likes. There will be a chance to sit back and talk, as well as, loudly cheer and chant for your favorite teams. If you are lucky, you may even be spotted by the Kiss Cam, a cheesy but memorable event for a first date.

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ROYALTY

Photos by Ava Powchik

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Personal Styling Tips FOR MEN Written by William Harvey

Personal style is easily spotted, but very hard to actually execute. When I started my Instagram account and searched some hashtags that had to do with menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion, I found a myriad of outfit pictures with no original ideas. People who just are following the latest trends by putting together outfits identical to what their favorite celebrities are wearing. The trendy Instagram style posts have gone through many iterations. There was the olive bomber, distressed jeans and

Stan Smith phase; then the wannabe Yeezy Season 1 phase; and now it is all about Jerry Lorenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fear of God style. This basically consists of a band tee, zipper jeans and ultra boosts or NMD runners. When executed well, I think this trendy getup can looks pretty damn good, but to make a mark in this extremely saturated fashion world, you need to be unique. Here is your guide on how to develop and cultivate your own unique personal style.

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STEP 1. Find out styles that you actually like. Whether it is the Rick Owne's gothninja-esque look, the Fear of God look, SLP or a combination of all three. There are countless cool styles out there, one for every personality and every style can be tweaked until it matches your personal aesthetic. STEP 2. Look for inspiration. Find people, whether they are Instagram accounts, celebrities, or just people on the street, whose styles inspire you, and take note of what they wearing. Make a moodboard, cultivate a mean inspo album (or just steal one from the subreddit /r/streetwear which has a lot of them if you search â&#x20AC;&#x153;inspo albumâ&#x20AC;?) and figure out what you really like and what you could see yourself actually wearing. STEP 3. Create a wardrobe that reflects you. Buy clothes, or use the clothes you already have in order to dress how you like. Thrift shops are your friend here! Thrifting is extremely fun, and a great way to experiment with your new style by taking some fashion risks, while being easy on the wallet. STEP 4. Be confident! I am not going to lie, when it comes down to it, confidence is key. Take Kanye West for example. He has some questionable outfits that most would not be able to rock, but he pulls them off flawlessly. While we sit over here and wonder how he does it, just remember that his confidence is really what makes his outfits go over so well. If you think you look good, other people will think you look good too! Photos courtesy of: hypebeast.com, hollywoodtake.com, thefashionisto.com

STEP 5. Understand that your personal style is journey, not a destination. Very few people actually stay with the same look for their entire lives. Trends might adjust and tastes might change, but remember to think creatively. The clothes you have now can always be adjusted to work in different looks and different settings! So, as developing a personal style goes, it really comes down to wearing what you like, not what you think is trendy. If you really like what you are wearing, and that style is really you, then people will see that! So go out, and find your style!

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Boston After Dark:

UNIQUE NIGHTLIFE DESTINATIONS Written by Catherine Lindsay

Photos by Lindis Barry

Nightlife in Boston can be a bit challenging at times, especially as a student. Between the popular but expensive clubs in the Theater District and the already-established concert halls, there is a bit of originality missing. But there are some well-known (and not so well-known) locations that stand out from the rest. These local spots range from lounges and clubs to restaurants and live music venues that will definitely satisfy your every need for a fun night out!

DRINK This bar dedicated to the art of the cocktail blends classic recipes with modern touches. There is no set cocktail menu, so you can ask for your favorite or let the bartender surprise you. Open every night from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Drinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial design and former wool warehouse location will make you feel like you are in a modern speakeasy. Check out their Tiki Sundays the second week of every month for exotic drinks and snack. 348 Congress Street, Boston, 617-695-1806, drinkfortpoint.com

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PHOENIX LANDING Describing itself as an “alternative Irish bar,” Phoenix Landing hosts a wide variety of events throughout the week. Offering live DJ sets seven nights a week until 1 or 2 a.m., this venue provides different styles of dance music every night. Some of their events, especially on Sundays, are open to those age 19 and older. Definitely check out one their most popular live DJ nights, RE:SET Wednesdays. 512 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, 617-576-6260, phoenixlandingbar.com

AMERICAN FRESH BEER GARDEN This family-friendly establishment offers a variety of nighttime entertainment and events all week long, such as live bands and trivia with prizes. During the winter, a heated tent covers the garden, keeping patrons warm. You can try a variety of beers on tap as well as an all-American food menu. The outdoor beer garden is open all week, and Fridays and Saturdays until 12 a.m. 310 Canal Street, Somerville, 1-800-428-1150, slumbrew.com

THE LAWN ON D One of Boston’s top selfie spots is a must-see, offering a wide range of events and options for all ages. Special community events are often scheduled, including games such as Jenga or Swing Time, a collection of lit-up swings that make for an interesting and interactive public work of art. Enjoy a varied concessions menu while reveling in the open air from Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m. 420 D Street, Boston, 877-393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d

THE SINCLAIR This live music venue and American kitchen is open all week and until 2 a.m. Thursday to Saturday. With most of their events open to those 18 and over, The Sinclair will allow you to go see your favorite bands or discover new music. This location has become a staple of the Harvard Square neighborhood, with an industrial-inspired look and subway tiling. Enjoy a nighttime show and come back for delicious brunch in the morning! 52 Church Street, Cambridge, 617-547-5200, sinclaircambridge.com

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LUCKY STRIKE The higher-end version of your local bowling alley, this establishment has something for everyone. You can eat, dance, bowl, play billiards and drink at Jillian’s and Lucky Strike Lanes, a 3-floor complex that holds 16 bowling lanes. Enjoy a fun night with all your friends every day of the week until 2 a.m. From 8 p.m. onwards, those 18 and over only are welcome Sunday through Thursday, and those 21 and over only Friday and Saturday. 145 Ipswich Street, Boston, 617-437-0300, jilliansboston.com

IMPROV ASYLUM This well-known North End staple has been a college student favorite for a while now. Featuring multiple weekly shows and hilarious improvised scenes, Improv Asylum needs no introduction. Open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, this comedy club will have you rolling on the floor with laughter. Be sure to check out their Main Stage shows, which cost between $22 and $28. 216 Hanover Street, Boston, 617-263-6887, improvasylum.com

FELIPE’S TAQUERIA

ARTICLE 24

A mainstay in Boston’s restaurant scene, Felipe’s offers a one-of-a-kind rooftop where you can sip drinks in a vibrant atmosphere while enjoying authentic Mexican food. Try some Latin cocktails like the spicy margarita while enjoying the open air and conversations with friends. Felipe’s Taqueria is open from Sunday to Wednesday from 11 to 12 a.m., and Thursday to Saturday from 11 to 2 a.m.

This American restaurant says it is focused on “good food, good music, and good times.” Hosting a variety of events such as weekly karaoke, trivia, and live DJs all weekend, Article 24 creates a lively atmosphere in nightlifechallenged Brighton. Check out one of its popular events, the EDM brunch, or simply try an original cocktail creation like the Figawi, with vodka muddled with watermelon, cucumber, mint, and lemon. Article 24 is open all week until 2 a.m.

21 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617-354-9944, harvardsq.felipestaqueria.com

458 Western Avenue, Brighton, 617-254-2424, article24boston.com

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MACHINE One of Boston’s best gay dance clubs, Machine is open to all and hosts regular 18 and over events on Fridays until 2 a.m. With each night of the week presenting a different theme such as karaoke night Thursdays, you can dance the night away to Top 40 hits, electronic music, and throwbacks while sipping cocktails among a great crowd. Machine’s lack of dress code and “positive vibes only” policy sets this location apart. 1254-1256 Boylston Street, Boston, 617-536-1950, machineboston.club

TUNNEL Nestled beneath the W hotel, Tunnel hosts a jet setting crowd at it’s elite location. If you have a higher budget and are looking for a more sophisticated night, this is the place for you. A discreet entrance behind frosted windows leads you underground, where you can try their signature “The Tunnel” drink. Dance the night away to the Top 40 or electronic music Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays until 2 a.m. 100 Stuart Street, Boston, 617-357-5005, tunnelboston.com

MIDDLESEX LOUNGE This urban bar and lounge serves up homemade and unique cocktails from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. between Thursday and Sunday. Featuring nightly events with electronic music and other genres like disco, Middlesex Lounge imports international DJs from all over the map to create a musiccentric atmosphere. One of its most popular events is the weekly Make It New, on Thursdays. Cover charges start at $10. 315 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, 617-868-6739, middlesexlounge.us

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GRAMWORTHY: honing your insta #aesthetic Written by Halle Butler

Not all millennials have flawless Instagrams. Need a social media makeover? Call the gram-bulance and get to work. All it takes is some dedication, good lighting and a little personality.

Strategy

Be a man with a plan. Decide what kind of content you want to post, what exactly you want to achieve with your Instagram and what kind of people you want to attract. If you are an artist, designer or blogger, your Instagram makes a great portfolio. If you are none of these things, just try to post cool photos that are true to your style. You may want to keep a personal account, a real-stagram, separate from your curated account. No one needs memes or selfies distracting from your photography.

Content

It is about quantity and quality here. People just want to see good stuff all the time. Make sure your photos are not taken from snapchat or heavily filtered, because it is too easy to tell. Good photos look good, it is not rocket science. Lighting is everything - if you do not have equipment, just use daylight. Post often, but not too often. If you are crowding the feed, people might get bored, but be sure to post at least once a week; otherwise, your followers might forget about you. Plan some time to take lots of quality photos so that you always have something to post. VSCO is a great app that not only helps you edit your photos, but lets you see how they will all be laid out on your Instagram.

Consistency

The best Instagrams have a consistent look without being boring. Your favorite bloggers post outfits every day, but they do not all look the same. Try to vary in colors, backgrounds, and even the actual subjects of your photos.

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#fashionillustration to attract a more specific audience. If you are going to hashtag, do it right. You want people to be interested in you, so do not fake out with #followforfollow, #instagood or #promoforpromo.

Captions

Interact

Hate to break it to you, but if you caption your photos with “so happy it’s winter!!”, you are doing it wrong. This is where you have the chance to make your followers laugh, tell them something about yourself, describe what is going on in the photo, or share something with them. Great captions are not a necessity, but they are an investment. If I see another “nights like these” caption, I might just combust.

Hashtag

At the end of the day, it is all about personality. Be yourself and interact with others with a personal touch. Social media is a way to project an image to the world, so be curated, but genuine.

Follow accounts that inspire you and double-tap their photos. The more active you are on other accounts, the more you will get noticed. Tell someone how much you love their photo in a personal way that doesn’t sound spam-esque like “Cool pic! =)”. To hashtag or not to hashtag, that is the question. Holly Nichols (@hnicholsillustration) recommends using a specific hashtag. Instead of using #art, she uses

Photos courtesy of: instagram.com/hallebnails, instagram.com/katydilo

Many lifestyle accounts post a variety of scenic shots, flatlays, products, outfits, group shots, etc. They vary these photos evenly. If you want, you can edit your photos all the same way to have a similar look. Furthermore, there should be a good balance of #aspirational and #accessible photos. For example, post some high-quality artwork mixed in with some shots of your paintbrushes, or a shot of you working in progress. (Or a time-lapse of you creating art. People love a good time-lapse.)

Layer Up These looks add subtle depth to an otherwise natural beauty routine. From a soft ombre lip to tonal graphic nail art, these touches may inspire you to add a little more color or that one last detail to liven up your look.

Nail Stylist: Halle Butler Photographer: Annie Wu Models: Alyssa Otolo, Sophia Al-Kahmis

Sleek Chic A bold matte lip, a smokey eye and daring nail art all say one thing: Cool. Who said the edgy look was only for going out? Go all in and throw some shade into your everyday style, whether it be metallic accents, deep color or your favorite leather jacket.

Nail Stylist: Halle Butler Photographer: Annie Wu Models: Sarah Karp, Cat Gong

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MALE

MAKEUP ARTISTS TO FOLLOW Written by Yutika Ghiya

Clad in a sharp custom-made business suit, the strong, modern woman struts down the cold marble floor of her Wall Street office. She is much more than her glossy hair and perfect pout. She has a degree, and a magnificent brain to go along with it. Part of the executive board of a multinational corporation, she is making huge decisions and earning big bucks. The woman of today is undoubtedly performing “roles of men”. But we aren’t witnessing just a one-way role reversal. There are many men out there who are embracing the world of makeup. James Charles is one name without which this article would be incomplete. At just 17, he made history last month when he was named the first ever male ambassador for CoverGirl. As 2016 flourished with him

applying makeup, filming a commercial with the stunning Katy Perry and helping launch CoverGirl’s new So Lashy mascara, he told ABC News, “This has been the craziest year of my life but I have enjoyed every second of it”. Being a boy in beauty is not always easy. “Of course I get hate every once in a while,” he said. “Not everyone has to like what I’m doing and that’s totally OK. I feel happy and I feel confident, and I have a lot more people supporting me than don’t, and at the end of the day, that’s what matters.” James Charles, however, is most certainly not the only one who has got our eyelashes curling with envy. Makeup is not a mask. Makeup is art, makeup is passion, makeup is expression. So welcome, ladies, gentlemen, and everyone! Live it, embrace it. We will be right here sending our love to ya’ll.

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ANGEL MERINO Instagram: mac_daddyy Based in Los Angeles, this celebrity makeup artist happens to be the CEO of Artist Couture. If you are a lash junkie, then he has got to be your #goals.

JUNIINHO Instagram: juniinhorusty This Brazilian artist is the king of a sexy smokey eye and nearly poreless skin. His greatest magic trick, however, is his ability to transform lackluster brows to powerhouses of beauty.

ADAM RIOTROX Instagram: adamriotrox We need answers from a professional statistician as to how this fine talent only has about 6000 followers on Instagram.

MICHAEL FINCH Instagram: makeupbymichaelfinch A clean slate is heaven for Michael Finch. The Australian makeup artist undergoes crazy makeup transformations on the regular, complete with wild colors and brows for days. “Unique” does not even begin to sum up his style.

Photos courtesy of: instagram.com

PATRICK STARR Instagram: Patrickstarr Patrick’s Instagram is the brightest thing you will see today. His vivid lipsticks and glittery eye looks are just fabulous as his personality.

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KING & COMPANY DESIGNS

Written by Zoe Unverferth Photos by Daniel Zak

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When William Lenfestey, a third year markting major at Northeastern student, was approached by his good friend, Ben Perillo, about starting their own jewelry company, he was hesitant. He was worried about his lack of experience. However that did not last long. When I sat down to talk to William about his company, he said, “I realized that this was an opportunity to get out and start something on our own, and work towards building a company that can eventually find success.” They dove in. King & Co. Designs began with the help of great mentors, including William’s mother who owns a jewelry company. Founded in Santa Fe, New Mexico, King & Co. Designs is an accessories brand that offers handmade and upscale men’s jewelry. “We work to combine simple, yet elegant designs to create a clean, modern look.” They started off by ordering beads from a handful of local stores in Santa Fe, and creating samples first. When the two returned to college, on opposite coasts, they continued the process by sending designs back and forth to each other. Ben designs and William handles the business aspects of the company, keeping track of the finances and finding new wholesale partners by going to wholesale shows in New York City every semester. King & Co. takes pride in hand making each individual piece of their jewelry.

“Our products are handcrafted with high quality, natural materials to produce a fashionable, smooth appearance. Our goal is to deliver a sound and satisfying product to all of our customers.” There are currently fourteen bracelet styles sold online, in singles and pairs. They use Tiger’s Eye, African Jade and Magnesite, with crystal spacers and Buddha heads among other stones to make their jewelry. All bracelets are elastic and can accommodate a variety of wrist sizes. King & Co. Designs has only been around for a year, but their growth seems to be seeing no limits. Daniel Zak, a third year finance major at Northeastern, joined the team summer of 2016. He has has become a key member in the company’s growth, facilitating outreach and artistic growth via photoshoots and social media. Their hard work has paid off, and the company has began receiving orders from Wild Atlantique, a newly launched e-commerce site. William said that, “they placed our first large scale order, and it has been interesting to see how we handle the challenges of getting the inventory and handling distribution. But so far it has been a very successful time for our company.” William, Ben and Dan share a great

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passion for the products and company they are creating and continuing to build. Dan said, “other than at the gym, you won’t find me without my King & Co. bracelet. I wear it everyday, including when I’m dressing business formal. There’s something about it that calms me down and reminds me to not take life too seriously in stressful situations.” Dan’s current favorite is the Sky Jasper with the gold Buddha and William’s favorites are the Sky Jasper and Silver Leaf Buddha Duo and the Blue Tiger Eye and Red Tiger Eye Duo. Moving forward, the company hopes to expand the jewelry styles, William also wants, “to do some work with natural turquoise, sourcing it directly from New Mexico and various Native American tribes.” They also hope to start making apparel, such as sweatshirts, shirts and eventually sunglasses and backpacks. While we look forward to what is to come, we can enjoy their current offerings: unique bracelets that add an elegant and stylish accent to any look. All of the bracelets are available to be purchased through the website.

kingandcompanydesigns kingandcompanydesigns.com

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CAMPUS CHIC Photos by Adrian Kombe

ALEX FRANDSEN

HOMETOWN: Takoma Park, MD INSTAGRAM: thefrandman MAJOR: Journalism QUOTE: “Who sets the rules of fashion? Who knows and who cares?”

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JUNE CURRY-LINDAHL

HOMETOWN: Brussels, Belgium INSTAGRAM: june_currylindahl MAJOR: Business Administration QUOTE: “We like Black. Can’t you tell?”

BRANDON GOLDSTEIN

HOMETOWN: Singapore INSTAGRAM: brandon.goldstein MAJOR: Mechanical Engineering

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LIV SCIOLETTI

HOMETOWN: Boston, MA INSTAGRAM: scioletti0s MAJOR: Health Science QUOTE: “Simple outfits that stand out. That’s my style.”

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TheAvenueMag & NortheasternFashion

@neufashion